The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) has announced upcoming lane and ramp closures for Interstate 81 (I-81) northbound and southbound in Syracuse. These closures are part of the ongoing I-81 Viaduct Project and will affect traffic flow in multiple areas, primarily for pavement markings and barrier installation. Drivers should expect delays and plan alternative routes during the specified times.
Key Takeaways
- I-81 northbound and southbound will experience lane reductions in Syracuse.
- Closures are scheduled from September 22 to October 10, 2025.
- Work includes pavement markings, temporary concrete barrier installation, and retaining wall work.
- An off-ramp at Exit 21 (Spencer Street/Catawba Street) will close nightly.
- Fines for speeding in work zones are doubled; driver's license suspension is possible for repeat offenses.
Scheduled Lane Reductions for Pavement Markings
Beginning Monday, September 22, and continuing through Thursday, September 25, various sections of I-81 in Syracuse will have lane reductions. These closures are necessary for pavement marking activities related to the I-81 Viaduct Project. Drivers will see I-81 reduced to a single lane during these periods.
Specifically, on Monday, September 22, lane reductions will occur from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Then, from Tuesday, September 23, to Thursday, September 25, closures will be in effect from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. on weeknights.
Affected I-81 Sections
The northbound segment of I-81 affected is located between Exit 18 (Adams Street/Harrison Street) and Exit 23 (Park Street/Hiawatha Boulevard). For southbound traffic, the affected area is between Exits 23A-23B-22 (Hiawatha Boulevard/Destiny USA Drive/Bear Street) and Exit 20 (Franklin Street/West Street). These are significant stretches of the interstate within the city.
"Drivers are asked to use caution when driving through the work zone area and pay attention to all traffic control devices, including signs and flaggers," stated the NYSDOT advisory.
Fact: I-81 Viaduct Project
The I-81 Viaduct Project is a major infrastructure initiative in Syracuse aimed at replacing the aging elevated section of Interstate 81. The project involves complex construction over several years to improve safety and traffic flow in the region.
Off-Ramp Closure and Detour Information
In addition to the main lane reductions, a specific off-ramp will be closed nightly. The Exit 21 (Spencer Street/Catawba Street) off-ramp from I-81 southbound will be inaccessible from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. on weeknights. This closure begins Wednesday, September 24, and continues through Friday, September 26, also for pavement marking work.
A signed detour will guide drivers around this closure. Motorists should proceed south to Exit 19 (Clinton Street/Salina Street). From there, traffic will be directed to South Salina Street, then east on East Willow Street, north on Pearl Street, back to I-81 northbound, to Exit 22 (Court Street), west on Sunset Avenue, south on Court Street, and finally south on North Clinton Street to Spencer Street. This detour adds significant travel time.
Long-Term Northbound Lane Closures
Further lane closures are scheduled for a different section of I-81 northbound. This work involves the installation of a temporary concrete barrier and retaining wall work, also part of the I-81 Viaduct Project. This section will be reduced to one lane between Exit 17 (S Salina Street/Brighton Avenue) and Exit 18 (Adams Street/Harrison Street) in Syracuse.
Project Context
The I-81 Viaduct Project is a multi-year undertaking designed to improve transportation infrastructure in Central New York. These periodic closures are integral to the project's progress, allowing workers to complete necessary tasks like paving, barrier installation, and structural repairs.
These northbound closures will take place from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays. This phase of work is set to begin Monday, September 22, and is expected to continue until Friday, October 10. The extended duration indicates a more complex construction task in this area.
Safety and Enforcement in Work Zones
The NYSDOT stresses the importance of driver awareness and caution within all work zones. All traffic control devices, including signs and flaggers, must be obeyed. Construction schedules are dependent on weather conditions and may change without prior notice.
- Fines are doubled for speeding violations committed within work zones.
- Receiving two or more speeding violations in a work zone could lead to the suspension of a driver’s license.
These measures are in place to protect both construction workers and motorists. Drivers are urged to reduce speed and remain alert when approaching and traveling through these construction areas. Adherence to these rules is critical for safety.
Additional Traffic Advisories
The I-81 project is one of several ongoing infrastructure improvements in the Syracuse area. Other advisories have included lane closures on I-481 in DeWitt, I-690 eastbound and westbound in Syracuse, and East Colvin Street. These concurrent projects mean drivers should monitor local traffic reports regularly.
The NYSDOT website and local news outlets provide updated information on traffic conditions and advisories. Planning routes in advance and allowing extra travel time will help minimize disruption for commuters and travelers during this period of construction.
